Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis is characterised by pain on the inside aspect of the heel, resulting from inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs across the bottom of the foot, connecting the heel bone to the toes.

Causes and Risk Factors:
Tension and stress on the plantar fascia, leading to small tears
Repeated stretching and tearing, causing degeneration of the fascia
Advancing age
Certain types of exercises
Foot mechanics
Obesity
Occupation-related factors

Signs and Symptoms:
Pain is typically most severe in the morning, with the first steps of the day being particularly tender until the area warms up
Pain worsens with high-impact, weight-bearing activities

Diagnosis:
Thorough history and physical examination
Imaging studies, including X-ray, ultrasound, MRI, and CT scans

Treatments may include:
A combination of ice massage, taping, and stretching
Assessment and correction of biomechanical anomalies contributing to the condition
Footwear evaluation
Corticosteroid injections
Extracorporeal shockwave therapy
Surgery, if conservative measures fail